Senior Digital Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Established in 1944, it has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in over 120 offices worldwide. The organization focuses on providing funding and knowledge to developing countries, working with both public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects that address urgent global challenges. The World Bank Group emphasizes teamwork, transparency, trust, and client service, and values diversity within its workforce.

Job Overview:
The Senior Digital Development Specialist will play a crucial role in leading and developing the Digital Reimbursable Advisory Services portfolio across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) client countries. This position involves the creation of innovative knowledge products and strategic partnerships focused on cutting-edge digital topics, such as Artificial Intelligence and Digital Government, and their applications in addressing development challenges. The specialist will be responsible for designing, preparing, and supervising World Bank Group financed digital investment and policy reform programs, with a strong emphasis on enhancing digital connectivity infrastructure through public-private partnerships (PPPs) and regulatory reforms. The role also includes advising clients on strategies and best practices for developing their digital economies, engaging in complex technical assistance activities, and providing expertise on the legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks necessary for effective ICT sector development. The specialist will lead policy dialogues with senior officials and provide technical advice to promote competition and innovation in the telecom sector, ultimately aiming to improve access to digital services for citizens and businesses. Additionally, the role requires collaboration with colleagues across various sectors to leverage digital technologies for improved public service delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Digital Development Specialist will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including:

• Leading the development of the Digital Reimbursable Advisory Services portfolio across GCC countries.
• Creating innovative knowledge products and forming strategic partnerships on digital topics.
• Designing, preparing, and supervising digital investment and policy reform programs.
• Advising clients on strategies for developing digital economies and providing technical assistance.
• Leading policy dialogue with senior officials and stakeholders.
• Offering technical expertise on ICT policy and regulatory issues.
• Supporting the digitization of public administration and services.
• Collaborating with colleagues in other sectors to enhance public service delivery through digital technologies.
• Developing practical approaches to address policy and operational challenges in the digital economy. 1
• Publishing analytical papers and reports on digital policy and regulation. 1
• Ensuring high-quality economic and analysis" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">financial analysis for project decisions. 1
• Representing the digital unit at relevant forums and events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in telecommunications, engineering, computer science, law, economics, public policy, or a related field. A minimum of 8 years of experience in ICT/Digital Economy policy and regulation, project design, and implementation is required. Candidates should demonstrate excellent conceptual and analytical skills, with the ability to think strategically about the role of digital technologies in socio-economic development. Strong client engagement skills and a proven track record in project operations and implementation are essential. Familiarity with the World Bank Group Policy and Procedure Framework is a plus. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory, and experience in authoring published papers is advantageous. Candidates should also possess strong presentation skills and the ability to work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field such as telecommunications, engineering, computer science, law, economics, or public policy is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to address the complex challenges associated with digital development and ICT policy.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in ICT/Digital Economy policy and regulation, as well as project design and implementation. Candidates should have a proven track record of supporting project operations and delivering results in similar roles, ideally within the context of international development organizations or similar entities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the World Bank Group. Proficiency in Arabic is preferred, as it will facilitate engagement with stakeholders in the Middle East and North Africa region, enhancing the ability to communicate effectively with local partners and clients.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a term duration of 4 years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries are encouraged to apply. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.